wind generator question

Im considering geting or building a wind generator,my question is
how would you estimate which wind generator is more efficient.
theres vertical axis such as this
www.windside.com
and a horizontal ones that looks like an airplane propeler.(dont have any links.)
so how can one decide which is better??
thnx

 

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the major problem is finding the right generater
you need a generater that will produce maximum ouput at relatively low speeds
a car alternator is not the right choice because it has to run at approx. 3600 rpm before it starts generating output
you could of course use gearing to increase the speed but then you introduce gearing losses

the pitch of your propeller will also be a factor

 

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Where are you going to install it? The Windside machines are silent and can work in turbulant conditions, like on your roof. I doubt they produce as much power as the HAWTs though.

 

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According to:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wind_power#Wind_energy
~~~~~~~
Actual efficiencies range from 10% to 20% for propeller-type turbines, and are as high as 35% for three-dimensional vertical-axis turbines like Darrieus or Gorlov turbines.
~~~~~~~

However, "efficiency" may not be the important factor for your needs. From what the article says, I'd guess the vertical generators are more efficient because they work best at lower wind speeds. Depending on where and how high you place it, you may get more energy from a propellor-type generator. I suggest you read the entire articles "Wind Turbine" and "Wind Power" at Wikipedia.

You can probably find better practical advice on choosing/building one to fit your own needs by googling on "off grid" + "wind power"

 

Car alternator not putting out under 3600 RPM?

A Yugo alternator maybe.

 

http://www.velacreations.com/chispito.html

YOU WANT CHEAP WIND POWER....

-MT